The Spiritus Early Parent Centre, originally the Family and Youth Program, has been based in Inala since 1985.  Historically the program has been a community development position responding to local community needs as well as gaps in service provision. Since 1993, the focus of the program has been on supporting young pregnant and parenting families in the area. 

A key focus of the Early Parent Centre is to value and respect young parents for who they are.  The program believes in the strengths of young mums and dads, values the diversity, creativity and independence of young parents and the program celebrates their future.

It is important to acknowledge the fact that the young parents, particularly mums, are also valuable and capable of contributing positively in today’s society. In responding to young parents, the program is targeted at prevention and early intervention.  Indeed, the research indicates that support in the early childhood years is instrumental in preventing the emergence of social and behavioral problems later in life.

The program integrates a key component of education along with vital interaction, bonding and attachment methods in order to increase overall parenting skills, knowledge of health, nutrition, healthy relationships and increase levels of self-esteem and wellbeing.    The program aims to:

• Provide an opportunity for young pregnant and parenting women to access peer support.
• Reduce isolation experienced by young pregnant and parenting women and their partners
• Provide an opportunity for parents to experience fun and relaxation, and a break from normal routines of household chores. 
• Improve access to resources and services to young pregnant women and parents.
• Improve social skills, self-esteem and confidence of young parents.
• Strive to increase education, knowledge and skills in regard to parenting, health, education options, interaction and attachment.
• Provide an entry point for young pregnant women and young parents to additional activities and projects in their community.
• Ultimately to prevent child abuse and neglect.

For more information please contact us